Mayor Olivia Chow announced that the Scarborough Busway is set to open in September 2026, ahead of its original 2027 timeline. This new transit service aims to enhance efficiency for local commuters.
Details of the Scarborough Busway
The Scarborough Busway will stretch 4 kilometers, paralleling the former Scarborough RT route. It will connect Kennedy Station to Ellesmere Station, serving an estimated 120,000 passengers weekly.
Improved Transit Efficiency
Chow highlighted that the dedicated bus corridor will allow buses to bypass traffic, significantly improving travel times. A direct trip from Scarborough Centre Station to Kennedy Station is projected to take approximately 15 minutes.
Community Impact
Chow emphasized the importance of reliable transit options for Scarborough residents. “The people of Scarborough deserve reliable and efficient transit options,” she stated.
Financial Aspects
The project comes with a total estimated cost of $93.8 million, according to a recent update from the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).
Long-Standing Transit Challenges
Councilor Michael Thompson of Scarborough Centre noted the region’s long-standing deficiencies in transit services. “This is going to be a very big, positive investment in our community,” he remarked, underscoring the benefits it will bring.
Current Transit Alternatives
Since the closure of the Scarborough RT in 2023, the TTC has been operating a replacement bus service. Additionally, plans for a subway extension from Kennedy Station into Scarborough are underway, as reported on Metrolinx’s website.
